In a review of their Manitoba operations Hudbay reported year to date ore processed was 9 percent higher than the same period last year as a result of increased production from the Lalor and Reed mines near Snow Lake.  Hudbay President David Garofalo says their exploration program continues in the Lalor copper gold zone.  He says the assay results from the remaining seven drill holes continue to confirm a high grade thick core down the middle of the main zone with decreasing grade and thickness towards the contacts as well as separate hanging wall and footwall mineralization.  He says the phase two exploration ramp extension to the north is progressing well and is expected to be completed by the end of August which will allow the 8500 meter drill program to start in September.

Garofalo adds increased production at Lalor was partially offset by lower production at the Triple Seven Mine in Flin Flon in the second quarter.